A store clerk once had a favorite customer who was much larger than initial appearances showed. Less than 28 pounds and compact in build, she had excellent manners—until coming through the door of that store. At that point, this fiery little French Bulldog pulled her owner to where she knew “her cookies” were. She then would sit very properly, take her treat politely, and be fine. Anyone who makes light of the intelligence of these small but personal dogs has never seen or been around many.
This breed was selectively bred down to be a “toy bulldog” for companion use. In the 19th century, lace makers began the breed, and when they were displaced to France, they brought their dogs with them. The breed became very popular in France, and in the late 1800s, they were named French Bulldogs. They are a member of the AKC non-sporting group and must weigh less than 28 pounds.
The French Bulldog’s Unique Characteristics
Although they were bred as companion dogs, many of the little bulldogs in their history were quite useful as ratters in farming communities. Some historians believe the Pug had an influence on the breed, but there is a lack of records to back this up.
They were bred for companionship, making them a small, short-coated dog with distinctive “bat” ears. They are active little dogs that don’t miss much of what happens in their world. Due to their selective development, they are primarily indoor companion dogs. They should be well-balanced, with the distance from the ground to the withers being the same as from the withers to the base of the tail. Their bulldog ancestry gives them a muscular, heavy-boned appearance despite their small size.
With a large, square head and eyes wide apart, set low on the skull, the eyes should neither protrude nor sink in. The bone and muscle structure gives them a “big dog” look despite their small stature.
They can be brindle, fawn, white, or brindle with white. Solid black, without any trace of brindle, is a disqualification, as are liver, black and tan, and black and white. Although these dogs may still have the wonderful character of a French Bulldog, they do not meet the standard for showing.
Due to their alert nature, French Bulldogs make good watch dogs, but they are not necessarily good guard dogs. They will let you know someone is there, but after being bred as companions for so long, they should not be aggressive.
Catching the eye of Americans, French Bulldogs became the rage of society. In 1898, they became the first breed to have a specialty show at the Waldorf-Astoria. It is said that a French Bulldog was among the “passengers” on the Titanic. Many French Bulldogs were brought to America and gained immense popularity.
Originally, due to their bulldog ancestors, the breed had some dogs born with bat ears and others with rose ears, which resembled more of a bulldog’s ear. Americans preferred the bat ear as the hallmark of the breed. In 1897, an English judge chose the bat ear as the preferred ear type for the breed. This led to the formation of the first French Bulldog club in the world, and a breed standard was drawn up, which is essentially the same today, emphasizing the bat ears.
As pets, French Bulldogs are often described as “clowns in a dog suit.” They are naturally willing to please and enjoy being with people. Due to their facial structure, they should not be exercised in extreme weather. Hot, humid, or cold weather can interfere with their health. Many cannot swim, and they are not outdoor dogs. They can snore, drool, and sometimes wheeze, but they are companion dogs through and through.
There are health concerns to consider. Some of these include elongated soft palates, intervertebral disc degeneration, and hemivertebrae. Cataracts and deafness can also be factors. Sensitivity to anesthesia and Ace Promazine is also important to note.
Like other flat-faced breeds, stenotic nares (an obstruction in the airway) can be a concern. French Bulldogs can be more sensitive to heat extremes, so extra care must be taken in areas with extreme weather.
Some French Bulldogs may have Von Willebrand’s disease, a bleeding disorder that slows clotting. Thyroid disorders aren’t uncommon either. Due to the breed’s development from small bulldogs, chondrodysplasia (dwarfism) is possible. Spinal and back diseases may also occur, so these should be kept in mind when owning one of these dogs.
Breeding French Bulldogs can be costly. In addition to testing for genetic markers for hereditary diseases, some dogs require breeders to artificially inseminate the female. Once bred, frequently, C-sections are needed due to the large heads of the puppies. These issues make breeding French Bulldogs an expensive proposition, with little chance for profit if you intend to raise them as a business.
Caring for a French Bulldog
Another consideration in caring for a French Bulldog is due to their head and mouth structure. Their teeth have less room compared to a breed with a longer muzzle, such as a Beagle. The same number of teeth in a smaller space may increase dental care needs. Dental issues can cause further health problems, so prevention is key—especially since French Bulldogs are sensitive to anesthetics. The use of appropriate chew toys and recreational bones can help naturally maintain a healthy mouth without stressing the dog.
As pets, French Bulldogs are extremely loyal, sometimes becoming so attached to their owner that they may become defensive about other pets or people approaching. Coupled with their intelligence, this behavior should be managed and not allowed to become a bad habit. Although the breed is sweet-natured, they can change with their environment and training, so it’s important to teach them good behavior from the start.
Due to potential breathing issues, it’s wise to avoid using a harness or any type of choke collar on your French Bulldog. Teaching them to walk properly on a leash will make it easier for them to breathe and will keep them more comfortable.
French Bulldogs make excellent companion dogs—a role they have filled through selective breeding for over 150 years. This breed is an incredible pet for a dedicated owner. They were specifically developed as companion dogs, much like herding dogs excel in their roles. Finding the right individual within the breed is key, and if you’re looking for a pet, don’t overlook those “off-color” dogs. It doesn’t take a show dog to be a fantastic pet.
